As leading supplier of innovative solutions for sensitive skin and UV protection, Symrise devotes special attention to the preservation of skin balance in aggressive environments. As megalopolis spread all over the world, adapting to the urban environment becomes a priority. After a 5-year research program, Symrise brought a completely novel approach to the anti-pollution cosmetic arsenal and widens the skin protection spectrum. New skin defense strategies to protect from the damaging effects of atmospheric pollution concentrate on the protection from the harmful effects caused by Particulate Matter (PM) and Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs). Another approach concentrates on the skin protection from light pollution such as visible light (including blue light), near infrared (IR-A) and UV radiation which induce photoaging and pigmentation disorders.

Air Pollution ingredients help the skin to fight against the impact of particulate matter

Consumer awareness regarding the direct effects of atmospheric pollution on their skin has been growing every year around the world. According to Symrise’s CMI research more than 80% of consumers across the globe think that the skin absorbs the pollution that is in the air. Inspired by the first major epidemiological study establishing a link between particulate pollution and skin aging, Symrise research has discovered the pathway through which PM adulterate cells‘ functions.

While it is well accepted that UV rays induce skin aging, it is still recent knowledge that, in fact, multiple sources can be the cause: UV, IR & Visible light.UVB radiation is responsible for DNA damages and sunburn, UVA rays for DNA oxidation, immune suppression and pigmentation while IRA radiation induces heat sensations, oxidative damages and collagen degradation and Visible light (more specifically Blue Light) triggers long-term hyperpigmentation disorders. Sources of blue light include the natural solar radiation, digital screen (TVs, computers, laptops, smart phones and tablets), electronic devices, and fluorescent and LED lighting.To tackle the complex sunlight related exposure faced by the skin all day long, Symrise has developed dynamic and global solutions to ensure a young looking, radiant and even skin tone.